Denel invests in skills development

Denel is investing millions of rands in education and training to ensure that the country meets its demand for skills and that the economy continues to grow.

Artisan training provided by Denel SOC at its campus in Ekurhuleni is helping to meet South Africa’s huge demand for skilled human resources in technical fields.

This is according to Chief Executive of Denel Aviation, Mike Kgobe, who was speaking at an event to celebrate the achievements of students who were trained at the Denel Technical Academy (DTA).

A total of 235 students, who completed their first year of training at the DTA, will now serve apprenticeships at various companies and organisations before returning to Denel to complete their studies and qualification.

The country’s tertiary institutions must train at least 30 000 artisans each year to ensure that the country’s economy grows and that there is enough support for government’s big infrastructure projects. This is the target to be achieved by 2030, according to the recommendations contained in the National Development Plan.

Located next to the OR Tambo International Airport, the DTA has built a solid reputation for the quality of artisans and skilled technicians it delivers to serve the aviation industry. In recent months, the academy has expanded the scope of courses it offers to include other engineering and technical sectors.

Kgobe said Denel was committed to playing a leading role in the training of skilled engineers, artisans and technicians.

The Denel Group allocates more than R64 million a year to its “Talent Pipeline Model” that starts with mathematics and science programmes for high school learners and continues through to bursaries for tertiary studies, internships and mentoring programmes.

“For our country to achieve high levels of economic growth and address our social challenges of poverty, unemployment and inequality, we must work together to invest in education, training and skills development to achieve our vision of a skilled and capable workforce,” said Kgobe.